ASTM E2456-06(2012)

3.2.1 Terms and their related standard definitions in Section 4 are intended for use uniformly and consistently in all nanotechnology test methods, specifications, guides, and practices. The purpose of such use is to promote a clear understanding and interpretation of the standards in which they are used.

3.2.2 Definitions of terms are written in the broadest sense possible, consistent with the intended meaning using the following guidance considerations.

3.3.1 Descriptions of Terms are special purpose definitions intended to provide a precise understanding and interpretation of standards in which they are used.

3.3.2 A specific description of a term is applicable to the standard or standards in which the term is described and used.

3.3.3 Each standard in which a term is used in a specially defined manner beyond the definitions in Section 3.3.4 Practice E1964, Section 13, are used to guide the contents of descriptions.

3.3.5 As nanotechnology is a rapidly developing field, it will be necessary to continually reassess the terms and definitions contained in this standard, for purposes of revision when necessary. The intent of the terms and definitions in this standard is to describe materials containing features between approximately 1 and 100 nm and to differentiate those properties different from properties found in either molecules or the bulk (interior) of larger, micron-sized systems.

3.4.1 Discussion sub-paragraphs are non-normative. They are used in this standard to provide explanatory information, to clarify distinctions between the use of terms in this standard as compared with that in other contexts or other fields of technology and to suggest preferred usage of a term.